DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, November 1, 2025
All Saints Day commemorates all the martyrs and all the people of
God, living and dead, who form the mystical body of Christ. This feast day is,
in effect, a feast of the church.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Ezra 5:1-7; Revelation
4:1-11; Matthew 13:1-9
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:2 — Such great crowds gathered around him
that he got into a boat and sat there while the whole crowd stood on the beach.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Most people don’t know that I was once a professional
baseball player. I was only eight then, but huge crowds came from miles around
to watch and cheer. It happened after our teacher taught us to sing, “...it’s
one, two, three strikes he’s out at the old ball game.” The poem about Casey up
to bat fueled my over-active imagination, and that night, after chores, a huge
crowd showed up in the cow pasture on the other side of the creek to cheer me
on. It was magnificent! I must confess to wishing the same thing would happen
when I preach sermons, as it did for Jesus, but I have a long way to go. Jesus
was on a pitcher’s mound of a different kind. It was a fisherman’s boat turned
pulpit. So many people had come to hear this preacher who had healed the sick,
the lame, the deaf, and blind and cast out demons right and left that they
backed Him into the sea. Rather than stand in the muddy water, He got into a
boat, and there He sat down, the typical Jewish method of preaching, and
“pitched” them the good news. Some of the crowd missed and struck out because
they weren’t concentrating on the “ball.” But others caught it and ran for Home
with it! Have you been focusing on the “gospel ball”? Are you ready to catch
it, run for Home with it, and become one of the all-time great “pitchers”
yourself? That’s all it takes: concentration on the Good News and a willingness
to share it! Why not set your sights on the best “Home run” of all!?
PRAYER
Dear Father, I rejoice when others “catch” your good
news and run with it. Help me not be discouraged when sharing the gospel
doesn’t draw stadium crowds, but rather, let me be satisfied with throwing the
gospel to one person at a time. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, November 2, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Ezra 6:1-22; Revelation 5:1-10; Matthew 13:10-17
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:13 — The reason I speak to them in parables
is that ‘seeing they do not perceive, and hearing they do not listen, nor do
they understand.’
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Some of the “advanced literature” my kindergarten
teacher taught me included Humpty Dumpty, Mary Had a Little Lamb, Three
Blind Mice, and Hickory Dickory Dock. I also learned “God Bless America.”
I overheard a lot of other songs, stories, and history when the other eight
classes met at the front of our one-room school. Still, I was happy to know
about Mary’s Lamb and a host of other characters who supplemented my growing
knowledge of Dick and Jane. Perhaps I should feel cheated that Miss Shierloh
failed to teach me the classics. War and Peace was not even on our
shelves. I don’t remember hearing much of Shakespeare either. Miss Shierloh was
wise enough to know my young mind was unprepared for them. Jesus told a lot of
parables because that was all the people could understand. They weren’t ready
for great teachings but could remember the stories and illustrations. I’ve
discovered the same thing with children’s sermons and sermons for adults. I can
preach the most eloquent and theologically perfect sermon ever written, but
“seeing they do not perceive, and hearing they do not listen or
understand.” Jesus knew what He was
talking about. He had to speak to the people where they lived. That is one of
the best reasons for lay people to share the gospel. They don’t always know all
the theologically correct words and reasoning. But they live in the real world,
with real people, and understand the real stories with which those seeking God
can relate. Why not find someone to whom you can tell stories of God’s Love?
That’s Jesus’ example. So, tell someone a parable! Perhaps it will sink in and
lead to deeper thinking and more profound questions.
PRAYER
Thank you for keeping it simple in your stories, dear
Lord. Help me to keep it simple by sharing my faith story with others who may
hear your good news for the first time. I pray that you will move me beyond
stories and deeper thinking about you. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, November 3, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah 1:1-11; Revelation 5:11-6:11; Matthew
13:18-23
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:22 — As for what was sown among thorns,
this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the lure of
wealth choke the word, and it yields nothing.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
He was a bright ten-year-old when I met him. He had
bounced from foster home to foster home until he ended up with a family in
western Nebraska with lots of love. Then, without warning, he was gone. He ran
away. Over the years, I have heard about him from time to time. He got into the
wrong crowd, and things went from bad to worse. The court sent him to Boys
Town. He ran away. The State Police caught him after a high-speed chase in a
stolen car, which he wrecked. He had been part of a car theft ring, gotten
caught, and was sent to prison. Then I read of his accidental electrocution by
a fan in the state prison. Like a good seed sown among thorns, the “lure of
wealth” choked his goodness. I still feel a pang of sadness for him because I
saw so much potential in him. My young friend died a lonely, senseless death,
thinking he could get rich quickly. While he may be an extreme example of the
lure of wealth, is he so much different from the rest of us, who lose sight of
our responsibilities as stewards of the grace and blessings of God? What has
your example taught your children about the blessings of giving and sharing or
God providing for our needs? The seed is good. The potential is promising. The
promises of God are sure. No matter how little or how much we have, we
experience only a foretaste of the glories yet to be revealed. Why not set your
sights on those glories? May you discover the joy of being planted in the
Lord’s garden!
PRAYER
Forgive me, O God, when I set a poor example for
others by over-spending and over-indulging myself and my desires. Help me
refocus my priorities and realize that when I spend, I am spending your money,
not my own. Make me strong, so I don’t let the lure of wealth be where my heart
lies. In the name of Jesus, my Lord. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, November 4, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah 2:1-20; Revelation 6:12-7:4; Matthew 13:24-30
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:24-30 — He put before them another parable:
“The kingdom of heaven may be compared to someone who sowed good seed in his
field; but while everybody was asleep, an enemy came and sowed weeds among the
wheat, and then went away.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
According to Sydow’s Dictionary of Garden Terms,
“a weed is any plant growing where it’s not wanted.” Looking at my garden for
years, one would think I had many enemies planting weeds among the good and
productive plants. However, a weed is in the eye of the beholder. As an
herbalist, I have encouraged the growth of some “weeds,” like nettle, catnip,
lamb’s quarters, plantain, purslane, comfrey, and many more. He is undoubtedly
disappointed if the “enemy” planted them to discourage me. I have used every
one of them for food and/or for medicine. However, too much of a good thing can
be harmful. I have had to eliminate some of them lest they sap the soil around
those I want to nurture. Due to a wet spring and a very hectic schedule when I
lived in Nebraska, I didn’t get out early enough for many summers to pull the
tiny “weeds” before they took over. Later, I didn’t want to pull up the good
plants, getting rid of the bad. I could cut and remove some but had to leave
most until the fall. Autumn in my garden always reminds me that there is a day
of judgment - this year, more than most! I moved the garden. However, as I
moved my good plants, I was especially careful to remove the weeds around them
and scrape away any weed seed I could find. The weeds were hauled to the city
compost heap to be destroyed. How “useful” are you in the Lord’s garden? You
may see yourself as nothing special, even a “weed among roses,” but God sees
your heart and purpose. You may be just the “food or medicine” God needs to
bring healing and life to someone! Don’t be too quick to judge yourself (or
others, for that matter) and say you or they are not worth much in God’s plan.
God may have other ideas!
PRAYER
Look into my heart, dear God, and change me into the
person you want me to be when you see that I am lacking. Help me see the
goodness you have placed in me and others. Thank you for nurturing and loving
me, even when I see a weed. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah4:1-23; Revelation 7:4-17; Matthew 13:31-35
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:33 — He told them another parable: “The
kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three
measures of flour until all of it was leavened.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Grandma had a sourdough crock for making bread. She
would take some of it out to start a batch of bread, then replace it with flour
and water. I’m not sure of the details. As a five-year-old, I found that
process not as interesting as the giant ants, who crept out of their hiding
places in the sunshine near where I liked to play. I just knew she mixed the
part she removed from the crock with a bunch of other ingredients, kneaded it a
lot, and let it sit. Before long, it had risen to more than double its size.
Then she put it in pans and slid it in the oven. The part I remember most is
the smell of the bread and the first hot slice Grandma would cut for me, which
was slathered with cream and sprinkled generously with sugar! (My mouth
waters!) At the memory of fresh-baked bread, Jesus’ mouth must have watered,
too. The thought is truly heavenly! So, the kingdom of God is like that. I can
hardly wait! But, it has to be kneaded in us and wait for rising and baking -
possibly a painful process for us. Jesus sees the human condition like that.
The “yeast” of the Word is planted in us. The “kneading” of struggle, pain,
suffering, and sorrow will not pass us by. They are essential parts of our
human experience. The “baking” of confession and the death of sin is necessary,
too. Still, our mouths water with delight, awaiting the “slathering of cream”
and the generous “sprinkling of sugar” that comes with God’s great absolution -
the forgiveness of our sins and God’s welcome to the “Feast of Victory”! May
your mouth water at the thought of the kingdom of heaven!!!
PRAYER
I’m not crazy about the times you must mix the yeast
and knead me so that I will become more of the Christian you want me to be,
dear Heavenly Father. But I ask that you continue doing so, and I will taste
your kingdom one day. I pray this in the name of your Son. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, November 6, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah 5:1-19; Acts 20:7-12; Luke 12:22-31
SCRIPTURE
Luke 12:23 — For life is more than food, and the body
more than clothing.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
As I grew up, Mom made most of the clothes and cut our
hair. Dad butchered a hog and a cow each year, stocking our freezer with meat.
Together, and with our help, they had a big garden that produced more than we
could eat or can, so much so that we took baskets of it to grandparents, other
relatives, and friends who didn’t have gardens. I had no concept of being poor
growing up, at least not until I hit high school. And even then, it was never
an issue. Looking back, we didn’t have a lot of “things”. Had I grown up in a
big city or with TV the way my kids did, I may have noticed the patches, the
nicks, the “worn out look” of most of my clothes, or the fact that what Mom
didn’t make was passed on to us from aunts and uncles. I might also have been
less than thrilled with store-bought underwear and one nice toy for Christmas.
What we had was far more important and valuable. Although I didn’t recognize it
at the time, the love of my family and the blessings of God were a daily
experience so many other kids never had. As I grew older and saw what others
had, I felt envious. But I must also admit, even as a kid, I wouldn’t have
traded all the “things” some of my friends had for the love that was a daily
part of my life. (I might have occasionally traded a certain sister or a couple
of brothers!) The family struggle over inheritance brought to Jesus provided
the basis for Jesus reminding us to aim our lives at what matters for eternity.
The inheritance will go the way of the world and, in the end, be lost. But our
relationship with God and His love is far more valuable - for eternity. What is
most important in your life? Have you considered the place God’s love plays in
it?
PRAYER
You have told us that the poor are blessed, O Christ.
Help me put my priorities straight so you may use me to bless others. Draw me
closer to you and your love, which is more valuable than any money or gold. In
your Holy Name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, November 7, 2025
John Christian Frederick Heyer was the first Lutheran missionary
sent from the United States. He served tirelessly in India for many years until
his health began to fail. He died in 1873.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah 6:1-19; Revelation 10:1-11; Matthew 13:36-43
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:41 — The Son of Man will send his angels,
and they will collect out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all evildoers...
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
As one of Roy Roger’s deputies, I understood the
importance of rounding up bank robbers, horse thieves, cut-throats, and other
assorted criminals. Our posse was called on quite often to bring the evil bad
guys in to face justice. We tracked them through swamps, jungles, deserts,
Indian villages, and mountain ranges. But we almost always got our men. I was
thrilled to hear our Sunday School teacher read about Jesus sending his angel
posse to do the same thing. I could picture the scene very vividly and regretted
that our posse didn’t have the angels’ wings so that we could move more
swiftly. As a nine-year-old, I had one practical concern: should we somehow
gain our wings? It seemed to me we would be flying targets for those we were
trying to arrest. Thankfully, the bullets, bombs, and arrows of sinners and
evildoers will never penetrate or harm the angels sent by Jesus to bring them
in to face eternal justice! All fantasies and imagery aside, Jesus reminded his
followers that there IS a day of judgment that Jesus Himself will carry out and
preside over. We are not the posse nor the judges. Jesus is the Judge and
already has an angel posse of His own. With His insight and knowledge, Jesus
has given His messengers, his angels, the tough job of sorting good from evil.
It takes quite a load off of us, doesn’t it? We aren’t the judges. We are the
receivers of His love, mercy, and grace. Are you up to living God’s way? Are
you ready to face the posse and the Judge?
PRAYER
Forgive my mind and tongue, dear God, when I try and
sit in judgment of others. I pray that I may be of your mind and character so
that I am more concerned about serving others than being a judge. Thank you for
your grace, which surrounds me with your love. I pray this in the name of
Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, November 8, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah 12:27-47; Revelation 11:1-19; Matthew
13:44-52
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:47-49 — Again, the kingdom of heaven is
like a net that was thrown into the sea and caught fish of every kind; when it
was full, they drew it ashore, sat down, and put the good into baskets but
threw out the bad. So it will be at the end of the age....
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
My fishing exploits have generally been pretty dismal.
The first time Dad took me fishing at Hansen’s Dam over the hill from our farm
was with a long stick, a length of baling twine, a hook, and a couple of
uncooperative worms. The sunfish we caught wasn’t big enough to take home to
brag about. Clearly, Peter and the other fishermen were far more talented in
that pursuit than my father and I. My brothers and my sons easily outshine me when
catching fish. I have more skill in growing things. I have had bumper crops of
tomatoes, potatoes, herbs, and strawberries. At harvest time, we had to sort each
of them. The good quality produce was either stored for future use, shared, or
thrown onto the compost pile. It’s interesting how the process is a lot like
sorting fish, and it doesn’t depend on the good deeds of the fish or the
produce but on their quality! Like the commercial about Charlie, the tuna,
trying to make himself out to be good enough to be chosen, only to find it’s
not what’s on the outside that counts. Only what’s on the inside is important.
Jesus proclaims that the kingdom of heaven is like that. The Fisher of people
knows quality when He sees it because He sees the heart and soul - what’s on
the inside. What would He see if He set His sights on you now? In which
“basket” would you find yourself? Feel like “Charlie” the tuna? Here’s the good
news: Jesus has done all the hard work of cleansing us from sin on the cross.
Those who believe in Him and love Him enough to live for Him are being made
worthy by Him!
PRAYER
Try as I might, dear Lord, I keep finding that I’m not
worthy of a place in the kingdom of God. Thank you for my baptism and for
cleansing me from my sin. Help me be the kind of Christian you want me to be,
serving others as you have served. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, November 9, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah 13:4-22; Revelation 12:1-12; Matthew 13:53-58
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:57 — And they took offense at him. But
Jesus said to them, “Prophets are not without honor except in their own country
and in their own house.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
You might never have guessed, but I am incredibly
proud of both sons. Both have grown up, left home, and are pursuing their
careers. When they come to visit, or when we visit them, it is easy to slip
into the parent mode and forget that they are grown adults with wisdom,
knowledge, and skills far exceeding those of the children who grew up in our
home, under our wings. Riding with them in the back seat, Sue offered them some
gum. They said they’d like some, and Sue proceeded to tear a stick in half, the
way she always did when they were kids. “Mom,” Dane prodded her, “I think we’re
old enough to handle a full stick now!” We’ve also discovered many other areas
where their skills and knowledge are far greater than ours. I must bite my
tongue and marvel at what they know or can do, back off, and let them do it!
Jesus, growing up in a typical Middle Eastern village, was one of the
neighborhood “kids” the locals would have regarded and treated exactly like
their own kids. As one who has grown up, gone away, and “made good,” at least
by a reputation that preceded Him, Jesus was welcomed back home to Nazareth.
However, His return created a problem like that of our children. He went away a
“local” but returned speaking as “one with authority”! How do you deal with
that in a village where people are not expected to change? They were offended
and determined to throw Him off a cliff to stop the infection of new ideas. Don’t
be surprised when your relatives, friends, and neighbors refuse to hear the
good news from you. Don’t let it stop you. Do what Jesus did. Go to those who
don’t know you as a “snot-nosed kid” who is interested and hungry for the
gospel you have to share.
PRAYER
Help me not to be discouraged, great Lord, when people
I know the best are the hardest to share my faith. Let me not be shy, but also
help me realize that you may be sending me to speak to others, and others may
be sent to speak to my loved ones. Thank you for my ministry. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, November 10, 2025
Martin Luther, the reformer of the church, was born on
this date in 1483.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Ezra 7:1-26; Revelation 14:1-13; Matthew 13:1-13
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:13 — Now, when Jesus heard this, he
withdrew from there in a boat to a deserted place by himself. But when the
crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I attended a three-day continuing education conference
where the speaker, a Christian psychologist and author, requested that we give
him a break during breaks. He loved people, and his heart burned to help them,
but he told us he knew that if he didn’t take the break to refresh himself, he
wouldn’t be able to help anyone. I truly sympathized with him. I’ve spoken at
conferences and had people come to me during a break to “just ask one question,”
only to discover the break was over before I could take a break to catch my
breath. Once, I had to ask that the break be extended a few minutes so I could
rush off to use the restroom! Jesus had been ministering to crowds of people
from the early morning hours. Word reached Him that His cousin, John the Baptizer,
had been beheaded. Jesus’ body and mind were tired. His heart was heavy with
grief. Jesus reminds us that we all need a “quiet place” to escape the crowds
and the busy rush of life. We need time to think, to meditate, to pray. If we
don’t, our body and mind often find ways to make us take that break - we get
colds, flu, headaches, and a long list of other problems. At least I do. Jesus
was one step ahead of those ailments. He recognized His needs and took the
necessary break. Do you follow Jesus’ example, or do you let the busy, dizzy
world about you keep you too occupied to permit yourself to “withdraw to a
deserted place”? Jesus offers you His place. Why not accept His offer?
PRAYER
Thank you, dear God, for allowing me to have quiet
times. Help me see them and take advantage of them. Then, renew and sustain me
so I can return to a busy world serving you and others. In the name of Jesus.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Martin, Bishop of Tours, died in 397. Martin Luther was named after him. Martin
was one of the first holy men, not a martyr, to be publicly honored as a saint.
Soren Aabye Kierkegaard, teacher, theologian, and writer of excellent
devotional materials on Christ’s redemptive work and the cross’s significance,
died in 1855 at age 42.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Ezra 7:27-28; 8:21-26; Revelation 15:1-8; Matthew
14:13-21
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:14 — When he went ashore, he saw a great
crowd, and he had compassion for them and cured their sick.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I have the greatest admiration for my country school
teachers. I cannot imagine how they could be the janitor, preparing the room
for classes every day and cleaning up the room every evening. They also
prepared and taught kindergarten through eighth grade every day for every
subject, including music, art, and recreation, during recess and lunch! Even
during breaks, they seldom got breaks. Once in a while, a teacher would appoint
one of the “big kids” to supervise recess so that she could rest or get something
done. After recess, it always seemed like the teacher was happier and calmer.
Jesus needed time for a recess break, too. Even in His quiet place, the crowds
searched Him out. Jesus compassionately stepped out of His own needs to care
for the needs of others. Jesus teaches His followers two things: compassionate
care for ourselves - the importance of recognizing the need for a break to deal
with our own physical and emotional needs; and compassionate care for others -
not allowing our own needs to overwhelm us so that we have no time or energy to
help our neighbor in need. Both are important. How do you compassionately care
for yourself? Are you able to compassionately step out of your needs to help
others? Why not take a “recess” from your busy life to invite Jesus to join you
so that He can refresh you? But remember that the “recess” must end so that you
can compassionately serve the needs of others as He did?!
PRAYER
Help me to see the need to take care of myself, dear
Lord, and that I might take care of my body, mind, and spirit through much-needed
recesses. When your grace has
renewed me, send me back out again with joy in serving others. In the name of
Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Ezra 9:1-15; Revelation 17:1-14; Matthew 14:22-36
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:25-26 — And early in the morning he came
walking toward them on the sea. But when the disciples saw him walking on the
sea, they were terrified, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out in fear.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Late one night during spring break at college, some
friends and I walked and talked in the park. We had just had a ham sandwich and
coke at Irv’s, so we were walking it off as we discussed everything from our
most horrible teachers to the most depressing assignments. We were not
concentrating on anything very seriously. We had already gone through our
overheard gossip. We had also made our best guesses as to who and how someone
had slid an unbroken old toilet bowl over the school flag pole in front of the
girls’ dorm so that it sat on the ground, looking as if the flag pole had
sprouted from it. Concentrating on such weighty subjects, we were oblivious to
our surroundings, thinking we were the only ones in the one-block square park.
Then, from around the bend, around a large bush, one of our classmates walked
past and said, “Hi!” I’m sure we scarred the tar out of him as four grown
college men screamed and scattered. When we gathered our wits and met again, he
was gone, and we were still shaken. “It must have been a ghost!” someone (a
psychology major using us as his project) declared. We agreed we didn’t believe
in ghosts, but.... Jesus, walking on the water, was the last thing the
disciples expected to see as they struggled with the boat in the stormy sea.
Their first reaction, like ours, was based on fear. When working with the
storms of life, do you invite and expect Jesus to be there for you? He’s not a
ghost. He’s a friend, willing to calm your storms and bring peace to your
troubled sea. He loves to be invited to join us!
PRAYER
I don’t know why I’m surprised that when I call upon
you, my Jesus, you show up in many different and varied ways. You have promised
to always be with me no matter if the seas I am traveling are filled with huge
waves and troughs or when they are as calm as glass. Thank you for your
presence and for always listening. I pray this in the name of Jesus, my friend.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, November 13, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Ezra 10:1-17; Acts 24:10-21; Luke 14:12-24
SCRIPTURE
Luke 14:15 — One of the dinner guests, on hearing
this, said to him, “Blessed is anyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I’m looking forward to Thanksgiving dinner! Yes, I
love to eat, but my real reason is the memories Thanksgiving dinner triggers.
When I was a kid, our family would pile into the car to go to one of my
grandparents or one of my many aunts’ and uncles’ homes. In addition to Mom,
Dad, and five kids, there would be the delicious aroma of the food Mom
prepared. That often included freshly baked bread or good dinner rolls, even
without the generous supply of fresh homemade butter. Since many aunts and
uncles were on both sides of the family, it didn’t matter where we went. We
were sure to see many cousins with whom to play. These events were gastronomic
extravaganzas as well as family reunions. If the feast of our Thanksgiving
banquets and the guest lists were only a hint of those we will encounter at the
Feast Christ is preparing for us in heaven, I can only exclaim, “Bring it
on!!!” The true Bread in the kingdom of God presents Himself as a foretaste of
the Feast to come every time we receive communion. Blessed indeed is anyone
declared fit to eat of this Feast in heaven. Thank God almighty, that includes
all who believe in the saving work of Christ on the Cross, which makes us
worthy to enter His presence with thanksgiving. Is your mouth watering yet?
Give God thanks and praise for all His mercy, grace, and love!
PRAYER
As I come to your table, let it be a reminder of your
great love and invitation to me, dear Lord. I can only imagine the feast that
awaits me and all others who will be gathered there. As I take your body and
blood, it tells me that the best thing of all is that we’ll be in your
presence. In your name, I pray, O Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, November 14, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah 9:1-25; Revelation 18:1-8; Matthew 15:1-20
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 15:18 — But what comes out of the mouth
proceeds from the heart, and this is what defiles.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I grew up in the pre-chemical era. The use of
antibiotics, pesticides, herbicides, and other chemical treatments for plants
and animals was in its infancy. Growth hormones were not in our vocabulary yet.
We went to the garden with the confidence that we could pick what was ripe,
wipe off the dust on our overalls, and eat without fear of chemical
contamination. We took care of weeds with a corn knife, not a sprayer. My
father traced his cancer to the day he started using chemicals on crops. Today,
many of us have concerns about finding and eating organic foods. It was a
concern Jesus didn’t have. Jesus didn’t have to worry about whether his food
was organic. Like my earliest years, the days of Jesus were “chemical free,”
and the worst concern was dust. But Jesus was speaking of more than what we
eat. He was talking about spiritual food. We are bombarded with unspiritual
“food” over the airwaves, in movies, and on TV, much of which it would be good
to avoid, like cancer-causing chemicals. But what concerns Jesus, and should
concern us, is what we do with it. I heard a comedian trying to be funny with a
few crude and vulgar words thrown into his dialogue with some panelists. Sadly,
my image of him plummeted. He seemed like a nice guy, but what came out of his
mouth condemned him. Do you guard what goes in and what comes out of your
mouth? Do your words and actions lift the name and the Word of Jesus? We can’t
always control what goes in, but God blessed us with the free will to decide
what comes out. May your choices be blessed.
PRAYER
Thank you for the goodness of the spiritual food you
offer me, dear Jesus, the richness of your word, and the nourishment I receive
at your table. Help me to jealously guard what goes into me so that only good
things will come out. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, November 15, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah 9:26-38; Revelation 18:9-20; Matthew 15:21-28
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 15:28 — Then Jesus answered her, “Woman, great
is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed
instantly.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
One of my early heroes was my uncle, Orville. Orville
was the youngest in my mother’s family of fifteen and was only four years older
than me. I loved to go to stay at his place. Not only did I get the best of
Grandma’s cooking, but I also got to play with Orville. In some ways, we grew
up together. When I was a freshman in high school, Orville was a senior. As a
skinny, uncoordinated incoming country “hick,” I was a nobody. Orville, on the
other hand, was a popular, well-built athlete. He was co-captain of the
football team, played fantastic basketball, and was looked up to throughout the
school. A couple of my classmates, who didn’t know my connection with Orville,
needed the signature of a football team member for a freshman initiation
project. Time was running out. They didn’t know who they could get at that late
date. I told them to follow me. We walked a few blocks to my grandparent’s
house. They shook a little when I walked in without knocking and yelled for
Orville. He came jogging down the stairs from his room and asked what I needed.
When I explained, he said, “Sure!” and to the astonishment of my friends, he
signed their papers. I knew my uncle would be good for it, and he was. The
woman who came begging Jesus for help had a kind of desperate confidence. By
reputation, and probably as an eye-witness to His loving and healing power with
others, she “knew” what He could do. She went to the one who could do what no
one else could and was rewarded accordingly. How confident are you in your
relationship with Jesus? Do you know Him well enough to trust in His mercy and
grace? Then, blessed are you!
PRAYER
Let me draw ever closer to you, dear Jesus, trusting your
love and goodness more daily. Restore me to health in my body and soul so I may
be your servant. Let me lead others to you in confidence that you will be there
for them, also. It is in your name that I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, November 16, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah 7:73-8:18; Revelation 18:21-24; Matthew
15:29-39
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 15:36 — (Jesus) took the seven loaves and the
fish; and, after giving thanks, he broke them and gave them to the disciples,
and the disciples gave them to the crowds.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I can never remember a time when we didn’t milk cows.
As a result, even in the worst of times, we had fresh milk and cream. Cream
became one of my mother’s favorite ingredients for stretching and improving many
foods. She added cream to corn, peas, gravy, and, yes, even pork and beans. (That
last one makes my mouth water, but it causes my wife to want to gag.) Jesus had a favorite ingredient, also. It
wasn’t fresh cream or even olive oil or freshly ground flour. His favorite
ingredient for making a few loaves of bread and a couple of fish stretch to
feed 4000 men plus women and children was prayer and the breaking of bread.
Knowing the Creator of all ingredients intimately, Jesus knew the One who could
make the ingredients stretch and still satisfy. And they all ate and were
filled, and there were leftovers! Why not trust Him with all the ingredients of
your life - your health, wealth, talents and skills, friendships and
relationships, hurts and pains, heart and soul? He knows what to do with them
to make what matters last for an eternity!
PRAYER
All that I have is yours, dear Lord, take them and use
them for your good purposes. I can’t even imagine all the uses that you have
for me. Seeing what you can do with what I offer will be fascinating. I offer
these prayers in your name, O Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, November 17, 2025
Elizabeth of Thuringia, Princess of Hungary, was married for political
reasons at age 14 and lived in Wartburg, Germany. She was generous to the poor
and started two hospitals. After her husband died of the plague, she joined the
third order of St. Francis, living a very austere life, dying in 1231 at the
age of 24. She is one of the most beloved saints of the German people, and
countless hospitals have been named for her.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah 6:1-19; Revelation 19:1-10; Matthew 16:1-13
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16:4 — An evil and adulterous generation asks
for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah.” Then he
left them and went away.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Mrs. Siemsclaus reached the boiling point. Honestly,
Marlene was probably the only innocent student in the room. The big kids were
throwing spit wads. Some of the girls were giggling over notes they were
passing. The noise level peaked when Bobby Hansen and I over-loaded the sand
table, bumping a leg and causing it to collapse. The crash and the resulting
mess pushed the wrong button, and the entire school got a royal chewing out! After
the sand and dust settled, the bottom line was that we would lose our lunch and
mid-afternoon recess and all stay after school. Bobby and I rapidly cleaned up
our mess, sat down quickly, and buried our faces in our books. From that minute
on, there was absolute silence! At lunchtime, we ate our sack lunches silently,
cleaned up, and returned to the books on our desks. The silence must have also
gotten to the teacher by afternoon recess time. She complimented us on how
quiet and well-behaved we were. She gave us another gentler lecture on how we
needed to act in the future so that others could learn without distractions.
Then, she smiled and gave us our recess! (She said nothing about staying after
school, and we didn’t bring the subject up either.) That was the sign of Jonah
- not three days in the belly of a fish - but God’s mercy and grace. When the
people of Nineveh, as wicked as they were, repented, God forgave them and did
not destroy their city. What kind of signs do you expect? Is the sign of Jonah
good enough for you? How about the sign of Jesus - the cross and the empty
tomb? May both signs give you great joy and peace!
PRAYER
I need no other sign of your great love and goodness,
dear Lord, except for the sign of your resurrection after you were in the belly
of death for three days after hanging on the cross. I can face this day,
knowing this love will carry me through to eternity. In your name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, November 18, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah 12:27-47; Revelation 19:11-16; Matthew
16:13-20
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16:18 — And I tell you, you are Peter, and on
this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail
against it.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I’m not a math genius. I was fine until I got past the
long division. From then on, I had to work hard for a decent grade in math and
algebra classes. The one thing that has stuck with me through the years is the
importance of starting with a firm foundation. If even one part of any equation
is not true, everything else on pages and pages of calculation will be for
nothing. I wrote down the wrong number at the beginning of a college algebra
exam. I had four pages of other calculations, on which the teacher complimented
me. Everything in those four pages was done correctly. But my answer was wrong
because my “foundation” was incorrect! Builders also know the importance of a
solid foundation. One weak spot can cause the whole building to collapse. Jesus
knew that, too. He chided Simon by giving him the name Peter, meaning “Rock.”
Obviously, Peter was not a rock of faith - at least not a very solid one when
it came to Jesus. In the next breath, after Jesus has patted Peter on the back,
He calls Peter Satan. Later, Peter will deny Jesus three times. The real rock
on which Jesus will build His Church is the declaration of Jesus as “messiah”
and “Son of the living God.” That is the foundation of the equation leading to
eternal life. It is also the foundation stone for the apostles and saints to
build Jesus’ Church. Are you standing on that firm foundation? Jesus’ promise
to Peter is His promise to us. Satan may try to deceive those who believe, but
he has no power - unless we give it to him. In Christ, we are already
victorious!
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, I know that you are the Son of the living
God, that you died for me, and that equals eternal life. Let me build my entire
life knowing these truths. Use me, as you did Peter, to help build your church.
In your victorious name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah 13:4-22; Revelation 20:1-6; Matthew 16:21-28
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16:21 — From that time on, Jesus began to show
his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and undergo great suffering at the
hands of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the
third day, be raised.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The shout went out! It was a five-minute warning.
General Mom was leaving for the big city. In truth, it was the third and final
call. Unfortunately, we were busy climbing Mt. Everest. From halfway up the
tree we called a mountain, we had a clear view of base camp and saw the
General’s tank drive down the lane. We yelled at the top of our lungs, but Mom
could not hear. That night, when she returned, we told her we shouted at her to
stop because we wanted to go along, but she didn’t. Mom informed us that she
warned us the night before. Mom also reminded us at breakfast and shouted for
us before she left. If we wanted to go along, we should have been there
waiting. The disciples must have felt shocked when they recalled all the times
Jesus warned them about His suffering, death, and resurrection. They had not
been paying attention or dismissed it as someone else’s story. Have you been listening
to God’s word and plan for your life? Or have you been too busy “playing” and
climbing the social, political, and/or financial mountain to hear Jesus
speaking to you? Those who pay attention have a reason to rejoice every day.
May you hear and obey without hesitation.
PRAYER
So many things try to distract me from your word, O
God. I hear the allure of wanting to live a comfortable life, the insistence
that I am my own person and that you should receive just what is left over.
Forgive me for not truly listening to you, and help me to pay better attention.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, November 20, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Ezra 7:1-26; Acts 28:14-23; Luke 16:1-13
SCRIPTURE
Luke 16:13 — No slave can serve two masters; for a
slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and
despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
My Grandpa Roenfeldt was a county commissioner. He
took his job seriously, worked hard, and knew his territory’s roads and people
well. The farmers and land owners of his territory knew him and trusted him.
One of the few perquisites of his job was a fishing trip to Canada each year,
paid for by a large equipment dealer. While it was an accepted practice back
then (in the ancient of days), it would be seen as trying to serve two
masters. The technical term used these
days is “conflict of interest.” Keeping an objective eye on purchasing a large
road grader could be complicated while considering that fishing trip. Jesus
knew Peter, James, and John would have to stop fishing for fish for a living,
and Matthew would have to give up his lucrative tax collection office so each could
dedicate themselves to Him. His demand that the rich young ruler sell all and
give to the poor was for the same reason. His wealth had become a “conflict of
interest,” and he was trying to serve two masters. Is there a “conflict of interest”
in your spiritual life? How will you respond to your Lord’s command that you
love Him above all else? That’s how He has chosen to love you and give His life
for your eternal life! May you find great joy in your single-minded commitment
to Him.
PRAYER
Gracious Lord, so many things demand that they be my
master. Help me see which things in my life want to rule over me, dear God. I
pray that you alone will rule my life and that I will choose you over
everything else. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, November 21, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Ezra 7:27-28; 8:21-36; Revelation 20:7-15; Matthew
17:1-13
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 17:2 — And he was transfigured before them,
and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
During a prayer for healing, a lovely mother of two
seemed to be carrying the weight of the whole world on her shoulders as she
struggled with incredibly painful memories. The deep hurt from her childhood
seemed to be dragging her down into the pits of hell. In her despair, she
invited Jesus into her pain and suffering. Before my eyes, I saw a
transformation from deep, tearful anguish to peace and calm. At that point, a
puzzled look came over her face, and she exclaimed, “What happened to the
darkness? I didn’t even know my life was filled with darkness until Jesus
flooded me with light. It’s like a big beautiful sun shining over everything.
My hurt and pain are gone!” As she opened her eyes, her whole face beamed with
delighted, happy joy. She was healed and transformed! Having witnessed her
transformation, I can only imagine the shock the three sleepy former fishermen
must have experienced when they saw Jesus transfigured before them. His dull
traveling robe became dazzling white as if the sun was shining at night. Would
you like to experience the light of Christ in your life? He’s just waiting for
the right time for you to invite Him in. He will cause you to expose your pain,
but He will also heal it. May you smile with joyful delight, as did my
friend!!!
PRAYER
O God of light, enter into my darkness and heal me
from all that is troubling me. Shine your light in all the places I keep hidden
so that all things might be made right again. Shine, Jesus, shine on me. In
your name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, November 22, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Ezra 9:1-15; Revelation 21:1-8; Matthew 17:14-21
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 17:20 — ...I tell you, if you have faith the
size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to
there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
A friend wrote to tell me about the Theophostic (God’s
Light) prayer ministry he was using. It was developed by a Christian
psychologist who was frustrated with the years of counseling he had been doing
with abused women. After working with some of them for over eight years and
seeing very little noticeable progress, he went home telling God that God
needed to show him a better way. In a session with one of the women a short
time later, he asked Jesus to show them what needed to happen to bring healing.
When the woman reported that Jesus healed her, he said to himself, “No way!”
But over several weeks, he discovered it to be true. Her medical doctor even
took her off some medications because he could see they weren’t needed. It is
based purely on taking the “mustard-seed” faith and trusting that Jesus knows
more and can do more than we can. It is the faith that trusts Jesus at His
word: “I will be with you always!” Is anything impossible for Jesus? Is
healing, calming storms, casting out demons, walking on water, forgiving sins,
or rising from the dead? The whole point of Theophostic prayer ministry is
stepping aside and believing that Jesus knows more than we do and can do what
we cannot. Is that so amazing? He was, He is, and He always shall be. Why not
use just the little it takes to ask, “Lord Jesus, what is the pain in my life
all about? Will you come to me there and heal it?” Those who did so in the
Bible exclaimed, “He does all things well!” So will you!
PRAYER
Most Holy One, sometimes I clamp down my faith and
belief because I think there is no way that you can take care of what is wrong
with me. Help me pry loose those thoughts so my faith can grow as you intend. I
pray these things in the name of my Savior. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, November 23, 2025
Clement, Bishop of Rome, was considered Peter’s
successor as the church leader in Rome. According to tradition, he died a
martyr’s death in about 100.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Ezra 10:1-17; Revelation 21:9-21; Matthew 17:22-27
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 17:24-25a — When they reached Capernaum, the
collectors of the temple tax came to Peter and said, “Does your teacher not pay
the temple tax?” He said, “Yes, he does.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We belonged to a 4-H club that helped us learn the
fundamentals of caring for animals and how to train them to lead. We also
learned about good record-keeping, good citizenship, and good sportsmanship. In
addition, our leaders taught us the best way to present our animals at the
county fair. To support the club, we were each expected to pay dues. When I
joined FFA (Future Farmers of America), I also had to pay my dues there. Dues
were an acceptable way of paying the club’s operating expenses. I sometimes heard
people refer to the church offering as their “dues.” The temple taxes all Jews
were expected to pay were very much like dues. They paid the priests’ salaries
and all the other costs associated with temple worship. Offerings were
different. Offerings were given over and above what was paid for the temple
tax. I understand that continues to be the practice of Jews today. They are
required to give a tithe (10% of their income) as a temple tax for the
operation of their synagogue. The temple leaders also expected them to give
thank offerings beyond the tax. Peter acknowledged that Jesus already paid the
temple tax, but Jesus told Peter to give even more, an offering (which he is to
find in the mouth of the first fish he catches). What does your giving mean to
you? Do you pay your “dues,” the minimum amount you can get by with, or do you
give above and beyond out of gratitude for what God has done for you? May you
discover the joy of giving and be richly blessed as you do!
PRAYER
Forgive me for my “dues paying” attitude toward giving
back what already belongs to you, O God. Melt my cold heart and give me a
generous spirit so that others may benefit from what you have entrusted to my
care. Do wonders with me so that even I am amazed. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, November 24, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah 9:1-25; Revelation 21:22-22:5; Matthew 18:1-9
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 18:5 — Whoever welcomes one such child in my
name welcomes me.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The first time I water-skied, I was in college. We
went out to the state lakes near Fremont, Nebraska, where we had a picnic. A
friend had a boat and encouraged me to try skiing. Amazingly, I got up on the
skis on about the second or third try. What my friend failed to tell me was how
to stop. The lake we were on had an island, and we went around it... and around
it... and around it. Several times, he tried to tell me something, but I
couldn’t hear a thing. He waved at me to let go, but I didn’t understand the
signal and held on for dear life. I was getting tired, but I didn’t want to
fall. Finally, my friend slowed down and swerved into the shore. As I saw the
bank approaching and a collision with some trees seemed inevitable, I let go of
the rope. My skis dipped, and I went tumbling. Letting go was not easy!
Forgiveness is like that. We tend to want to hold on to sin - ours and others.
Peter was no different. He was looking for a perfect formula to give him an
excuse for getting revenge or even getting along with those who did him wrong.
Jesus said, “Don’t hold on. Let go!” Peter would have understood that seventy
times seven was an expression of infinity. In other words: “There is no limit
to the number of times we are to forgive sin.” Jesus has already told Peter
that they are retained if we retain any sins. That means we hold on to them
like I did that tow rope, and we will be dragged down to the pits of hell as quickly
as the person who sinned against us. We must forgive the sin,
remembering that God will care of the sinner. The sinner still has to
face judgment. But by letting go and forgiving the sin, we are free. Any sins
you need to forgive? It may take someone else to help you let go, but don’t
hold on too long!
PRAYER
Sometimes, I like to hold on to the sins others have
done to me, dear Lord. Sometimes, it’s out of fear that I might truly like them
again. Sometimes, it just makes me feel righteous. But I know that it is for my
own good that you wish for me to let them go. Help me do so, in the name of
Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Isaac Watts is considered the “father of English
hymnody.” Most of his hymns were based on the Psalms and reflect a strong and
serene faith. He died in 1748.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah 9:26-38; Revelation 22:6-13; Matthew 18:10-20
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 18:20 — Where two or three are gathered in my
name, I am there among them.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The advantage of being the only one in my class in
country school was that I could move ahead at my own pace. The disadvantage was
that I had to do it on my own, and I only worked on what I felt like. As a
result, I was way ahead in reading by the end of third grade but way behind in
math and social studies. Sometime in my fourth-grade year, I got a classmate.
The challenge of competition spurred me to learn more. The additional ideas
encouraged me to think more deeply. I also had to learn cooperation and
consideration. It was much more fun playing with someone my age, and two minds
could create more exciting adventures than one. No doubt, Jesus understood the
importance of companionship for His followers and disciples. His Father had
“created them, male and female, he created them...,” for companionship. Jesus
sent his disciples out two by two. He knew the value of private meditation. He
often went off by Himself to a lonely place to pray. But Jesus also knew the
value of fellowship. Instead of going alone - like a one-person show - Jesus
traveled with twelve companions. There is safety in numbers, but part of that
safety is in helping us stay on track. True worship is not an individual, solo
event. The triangle best illustrates true worship. We reach up to God. We reach
out to our brothers and sisters in Christ. And, we reach within to allow Christ
to work in us. We can do two things by ourselves, but true worship must always
reach out to others. When the three elements - up, out, and in - are in place,
so is Christ. Are you a “loner”? Why not discover the benefits and the power of
the presence of Christ in the community of His body?! Isn’t it great to know
you’re not alone?
PRAYER
Sometimes, I don’t like being with others, O God,
especially if they irritate me. Thank you for leading me back to be in
fellowship with other believers. Help us gather in your name, supporting and
encouraging one another so we don’t have to “go it alone.” In the name of the
Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, November 26, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Isaiah 19:19-25; Romans 15:5-13; Luke 19:11-27
SCRIPTURE
Luke 19:26 — I tell you, to all those who have, more
will be given; but from those who have nothing, even what they have will be
taken away.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Farmers have discovered that making a living can be
extremely difficult. A good-looking crop can be leveled to the ground in a few
minutes by grasshoppers or hail. To counteract the difficulty, many farmers
raise crops on different sections of land in hopes that if one area gets hit,
the other area will be missed. Sometimes the rain falls in one area but not
another. Those who can spread out often appear to be getting ahead and
increasing their wealth, while those who cannot do so can lose everything in
one season. In the financial world, those who can diversify their stocks are
often less likely to lose it all than those gambling on a single stock. Jesus
could have been talking about farming or finances. That principle holds true,
but He was commenting on how we use any of the gifts and abilities God has
given us. People who never step out of their “comfort zone” will never try
other farming methods or invest in different stocks. That person unwilling to
“step out in faith” will never try to use their God-given gifts. I’m not a
great singer or guitar player, but I enjoy doing both - even when I make
mistakes. I discovered that the more I sing and play, the better I get at it.
But I’ve also learned that if I don’t use those gifts, they get rusty, and I’m sure
they would be lost if I didn’t practice. What are your “gifts”? Have you been
using them to glorify God? God wants to increase them in you, but you must use
them!
PRAYER
Take away my fear of getting out of my comfort zone,
and help me to discover what gifts you have given me, dear Heavenly Father.
Help me use them often for your good and your glory. I pray these things in the
name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, November 27, 2025— THANKSGIVING DAY
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nehemiah 8:3-18; Revelation 22:14-21; Matthew 18:21-35
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 18:21-22 — Then Peter came and said to him, “Lord,
if another member of the church sins against me, how often should I forgive? As
many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “Not seven times, but I tell you,
seventy-seven times.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We woke to the smell of pumpkin pie baking in the
oven. It was Thanksgiving morning. We would go to the home of my aunt and uncle,
who lived in Pilger. Mom had to get up extra early to finish preparing the food
before waking us to do our chores. “Remember, it’s Thanksgiving,” she told us.
“No grumbling or complaining. Think of all we have to be thankful for!” I was
thankful that the oil burner was putting out heat in the living room as I
pulled on my clothes. It was hard to be thankful for the wet snow covering
everything, meaning snow dripped down our necks as we bent to wash udders and
attach the milkers to the cows. I was thankful for the warm wash water, the
steady flow of milk, and my twin brothers, who took over the milkers when I had
enough milk to lug up to the calves. I was thankful for my boots as I plodded
up the muddy path with a five-gallon bucket of milk in each hand. I was
thankful the calf I had treated for scours the day before was feeling better. I
couldn’t think of a thing about the pigs I fed for which to be thankful. They
were smelly, noisy, pushy, and filthy, filling their water trough with muck! I
suppose I could say I was thankful when I finished with them and could return
to the barn to help clean up. I was very thankful for breakfast and a nice warm
bath, even if I had to take it in the same water my other three brothers took
theirs. I was thankful for the clean clothes and the aromas of the different
foods that flooded the house as we dressed. I was thankful for a mother who was
a good cook and a father who drove us to my aunt and uncle’s home. I was
thankful for many relatives, especially cousins with whom we could play. I was
thankful that children, noisy as we were, were welcomed at the feast. I was
even more thankful when one of my aunts led us all in, praying table grace and another
aunt who distributed plates so we could eat the feast they’d all prepared. So,
what will your Thanksgiving list look like today?
PRAYER
Where do I begin my list of things to be thankful for,
dear Father in heaven? You have given me an overabundance of wealth, the love
of friends, a family I cherish, and others who help me experience your love.
Most of all, I thank you that you have made me yours. Help me to share that
love with others. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, November 28, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Joel 3:1-17; 1 Peter 1:1-12; Matthew 19:1-12
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 19:4-5 Jesus answered, “Have you not read that
the one who made them at the beginning ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For
this reason, a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife,
and the two shall become one flesh’?
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Our meandering creek was always an exciting place to
investigate. It was abundant with such a wide variety of plants, insects, and
animal tracks. Therefore, it was also the source of many great adventures. The
place where the cows liked to cross was always muddy and mucky. My sister and
the neighbor kid got into an argument as they crossed barefoot with pant legs
rolled up high. Landon said something about girls being such sissies. That set
my sister off. “Oh, yeh! Well, God made you out of mud.” she snapped. He didn’t
have to get his hands dirty to make me! He just grabbed one of your ribs!” The
“discussion” went downhill from there, and mud began to fly. Perhaps that’s a
childish version of what happens when men and women are so focused on the what,
how, and how much of their creation that they lose sight of the WHO! Genesis is
not a science textbook. It is HIStory! It is the true story of God’s intimate
involvement in every aspect of our creation. We were created in His image -
male AND female! God created us to become “one flesh”! St. Paul reminded his
friends that the parts of the body all serve a specific purpose and cannot
separate themselves from the body because they serve different purposes.
Indeed, that is what makes them function well as a whole body. When people live
marriage as God intended it, the two are not tied to their parents’ apron
strings. Instead, they are tied to each other as a yoke of oxen working
together for a common purpose - neither losing their individuality but joining
God’s plan. Isn’t it great to know that God has washed us clean and made us new
in the waters of baptism?! May God help you renew all your relationships in
God’s model.
PRAYER
I give you thanks and praise for making me and all
people in your image, dear God. Help me work as a team with my help-mate with
whom you have blessed me. May you also renew my relationships with others,
using your Son as the model of all I do. In His name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, November 29, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Nahum 1:1-13; 1 Peter 1:13-25; Matthew 19:13-22
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 19:21-22 — Jesus said to him, “If you wish to
be perfect, go, sell your possessions, and give the money to the poor, and you
will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” When the young man heard
this word, he went away grieving, for he had many possessions.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Moving is a great experience! I have a “love-hate”
affair with it. The love part comes with the excitement I feel before I think
of all the hard work involved and after we move and the dust settles. The hate
part comes from the pain involved. It is not only the pain of sore muscles. It
is also the pain of deciding what stays and what goes, what to keep and what to
throw away. I remember the year we moved my mother from a house crammed full of
years of accumulated memories, treasures, and junk she “might need someday”
into a tiny apartment. Close on the heels of that move, we moved the whole
house we lived in. Yes, the entire house. (The church moved the parsonage across
the street!) However, it meant packing all “valuables” we didn’t want to fall
and break, emptying the basement crawl space, the garage, and the front
entryway because they weren’t moving with the house. We are not natural savers
and accumulators, but it was amazing how much “stuff” we had and how hard it
was to eliminate some of it. The rich young man Jesus spoke to wasn’t ready to
get rid of anything. He was so attached to his wealth and treasures that even
eternal life wasn’t good enough. As a new church year begins soon, we should
re-examine what really matters in life. Are our accumulated treasures more
important than our relationship with our Lord? Why not spend a few minutes
today looking over your storage shelves and the things you have on your walls
and in cabinets? Would you be willing to give them up to follow Jesus? He’s not
asking that of you, necessarily, but it may help you discover your true
priorities.
PRAYER
I pray that I may have priorities pleasing to you, O
my God. Help me see my treasures in life and remove those things that are just
so much “stuff.” I pray that I may remember what I have accumulated when I see
something I’m sure I “need.” It is in the name of Jesus that I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, November 30, 2025
St. Andrew was a fisherman, the brother of Simon Peter, and the first apostle to
follow Jesus. He then brought his brother to Christ. A 14th-century
tradition claims he was martyred on this day by being crucified on an X-shaped
cross.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Obadiah 15-21; 1 Peter 2:1-10; Matthew 19:23-30
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 19:23-30 — Again, I tell you, it is easier for
a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter
the kingdom of God.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
One of our favorite adventures involved crawling
through every culvert we could find between our farm and the school a mile
away. There were three. One was a nice-sized wooden culvert through which we
could easily crawl on our knees. One was a good-sized metal tube. It was
smaller but still relatively easy to get through from one side of the road to
the other if you didn’t get caught on the rivets. The third was a real
challenge. This one required more careful maneuvering. It was small. I was
getting too big to get through it with a jacket on, especially with my pockets
loaded with guns, knives, grenades, and other assorted treasures. The day we
made the trip through the “middle of the earth,” it was chilly outside. My
jacket or one of my weapons got stuck. I had to back out and try again. The
only way I could make it was to remove the jacket and have my sister carry it
to the other side for me. I wasn’t a camel, but I can appreciate how tough
camels, with their big humps and their saddle bags loaded with merchandise,
must have had to struggle through tight openings. Whether the eye of an actual
needle (a hilarious thought), the needle slot through which archers shot their
arrows or even the low and tight doors in castle walls sometimes called the eye
of the needle, it would have been difficult if not impossible. Had I not gotten
rid of my jacket full of treasures, I couldn’t have made it through the
culvert! If we become so attached to our wealth that we can’t let them go, we
won’t enter heaven. Can you let go and let God provide what is needed on
“the other side”?
PRAYER
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